Sex trysts at Malaysia’s historic site

Malacca (Malaysia), April 14 (IANS) The hill-top church here that once housed the remains of 16th century Christian missionary St. Francis Xavier is now a place for sexual trysts and the government is not amused.

Malacca state Chief Minister Mohammed Ali Rustam “is hopping mad” over reports that young couples have been having sexual trysts on the historic hilltops of St. John’s Hill and St. Paul’s Hill, The Star reported Thursday.

The site once housed the remains of St. Francis Xavier, who was buried there in 1553 before his body was moved to Goa, India.

Rustam has directed the local council “to thwart the undesirable activities” after he was briefed on the recent discovery of used condoms at the unlit St. John’s hilltop and also the sighting of lovers at St. Paul’s Hill.

“These historical sites have been turned into havens for unsavoury acts. I want all those responsible for the maintenance of the sites to meet me,” Rustam said.

“I will not hesitate to issue show-cause letters to council workers who have been tasked to supervise the sites,” he added.

To begin with, he has asked that the sites be lit extensively using solar-powered lamp posts.

He also said enforcement agencies will be asked to intensify patrols at the areas.

“I don’t want the sites to be known for the wrong reasons and I am surprised that the authorities are unaware of this,” he added.

A visit by The Star team Wednesday showed some spots at St John’s Hill had been turned into a meeting point for people who were believed to have been involved in sexual trysts.

Joggers going up the hill also reported sighting dozens of used condom packs strewn all round the historic site, including the fort where the 18th century Dutch cannons are placed.

Founded in 1571 by Portuguese conquerors, the hilltop has been recognised as a Unesco world heritage site.

Tourists daily throng the sites, which are famous for their unique ruins and the breathtaking view of Malacca town.